Grad appreciates UIU experience and accomplishments

Nick Baumler said he’s really not upset that he didn’t get to walk across the stage as part of the graduation experience at Upper Iowa University. He’s not even terribly upset because he didn’t get the chance to wrestle in the national tournament that he qualified for.

“It doesn’t take away from the things you accomplished. Most students know that,” the West Union native said, keeping his mind on the positives he attained during his four years at UIU.

Baumler was one of 1,275 students who completed their associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree requirements at UIU. Of those, 203 including Baumler, graduated from the Fayette Campus. This year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ceremony was conducted virtually, Saturday, May 9. The honorees names were read and submitted photos of graduates were shown on screen.

Baumler, now living in Cedar Falls, said he is definitely disappointed about having the graduation ceremony and the national tournament cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns but to him, it is what it is.

Nick Baumler is proud of his accomplishments at Upper Iowa University and doesn’t feel slighted by not having a traditional graduation ceremony.

“Obviously everyone wants to walk across the stage but it’s not the end of the world. I just think it was nice that they put something together to somewhat replace it,” said the Accounting and Financial Management degree holder.

Baumler wrestled for UIU for four years so that was also a big part of his university experience. His senior year he was ranked number 2 in the nation for his division.

“The day before the tournament it was cancelled. It was disappointing, a tough way to end your senior year. That still doesn’t take away from my experience. You can only control what you can control,” said the accomplished wrestler.

Now Baumler says he’s got his sights set on the future.

“It’s time to move forward. I’ve got a lot of other things going for me and my health is still in check,” he said.